Were you looking for a guaranteed good laugh? Look no further than Netflix’s top-notch selection of comedy shows. Whether you’re in the mood for witty sitcoms, hilarious stand-up specials, or clever sketch comedy, this streaming giant has the best of the best to suit every comedic taste. Each show, from critically acclaimed series to hidden gems, promises to deliver a side-splitting experience.
So, explore the best comedy shows on Netflix and prepare for a laughter-filled journey through the platform’s finest humor.
The Best Comedy Shows on Netflix Right Now
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
Rebecca Bunch, a hardworking lawyer in New York City, felt unfulfilled and unhappy with her life. One day, overwhelmed by her emotions, she left it all behind and moved to West Covina, California. This small town happened to be the home of Josh Chan, a brief fling from Rebecca’s summer camp days over ten years ago. Initially, Rebecca denied that her relocation had anything to do with Josh, but soon, she and her newfound friend and confidante, Paula, hatched schemes to win him back.
What makes ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ unique is its zany and self-aware approach to storytelling. In contrast, it may seem like a typical romantic comedy at first glance. Still, the show fearlessly tackles serious issues such as depression, mental illness, and family trauma with remarkable depth and sensitivity. And here’s the cherry on top: it’s a musical! The characters break into song and dance, adding joy and creativity to the already captivating narrative.
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Dead to Me
Calling all fans of dark comedy! Get ready to sit back and indulge in a biting yet hilarious gem. When Jen’s husband is tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident, she is consumed by anger and resentment. Seeking comfort, she joins a grief support group where she forms an unlikely bond with Judy, a quirky and optimistic woman whose personality is the complete opposite of Jen’s raging storm. Little does Jen know Judy is responsible for the hit-and-run. As Jen’s obsession with finding her husband’s killer intensifies, Judy realizes that her hidden secrets can’t remain buried forever.
American Vandal
Created by Tony Yacenda and Dan Perrault of Funny or Die, “American Vandal” received a prestigious Peabody Award for its perfect blend of potty humor and insightful examination of the genre it playfully mocks.
Prepare for a hilarious and clever take on the true-crime genre with “American Vandal.” In this parody series, two teenagers delve into seemingly insignificant offenses like graffiti but approach them with the same seriousness as the acclaimed show “Making a Murderer.”
Arrested Development (2003–2019)
Arrested Development received the best ensemble on TV” back in 2004. The story starts when patriarch George Bluth Sr. is imprisoned for fraud and questionable activities, and his responsible son Michael is left to pick up the pieces and manage the family business. However, he faces the daunting task of guiding his eccentric and wealthy relatives through their new financial struggles. Narrated by the talented Ron Howard, this critically acclaimed series presents the absurd and comical antics of the Bluth clan in a unique and cinematic style. With an incredible ensemble cast, “Arrested Development” remains a standout in television history, offering a delightful blend of wit, humor, and unforgettable characters.
Dead Boy Detectives
It is a fascinating blend of supernatural horror, detective work, and comedy-drama. The series revolves around Charles Rowland and Edwin Paine, two individuals who chose to remain on Earth instead of entering the afterlife. Together, they venture into thrilling investigations that involve supernatural elements. This unique premise sets the stage for a captivating and often humorous exploration of crime-solving in the supernatural realm.
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The Gentlemen
An action-packed and comedic series by Guy Ritchie is the best comedy show on Netflix. The show follows Edward Horniman, who unexpectedly inherits a vast estate spanning 15,000 acres and the prestigious title of Duke of Halstead after his father passes away. However, he soon discovers that his new property is entangled in a sprawling empire of weed cultivation masterminded by Susie Glass. Edward helms a dangerous world filled with strange and dangerous characters, all with their hidden agendas. Amid this confusion, he protects his home, stays alive, and outwits the odds.
Resident Alien
This captivating television series created by Chris Sheridan presents an out-of-this-world blend of science fiction, mystery, comedy, and drama. It starts when an alien crashes into a quaint Colorado town, and his mission to wipe out humanity takes an unexpected turn. Assuming the identity of a vacationing physician, he finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue as he investigates the mysterious death of the town’s doctor.
Along the way, he grapples with the moral predicament of his secret mission and develops a unique bond with the mayor’s young son, who can see his proper alien form. Over time, he develops a deep compassion for humanity and becomes their unlikely defender against otherworldly threats.
Girls5eva
In Girls5eva, a TV series created by Meredith Scardino, a girl group that had one hit in the 1990s, gets sampled by a young rapper. This makes the group members reunite to achieve their pop star dreams again. However, they must balance their personal lives, including spouses, kids, jobs, debt, aging parents, and even shoulder pain.
My Next Guest Needs No Introduction With David Letterman
This American talk show, hosted by the legendary David Letterman, features in-depth interviews with a single guest per episode. The conversations occur both in a studio and outside, adding a unique dynamic to the show. With its thought-provoking format, Letterman’s charismatic hosting, carefully chosen guests, and the depth of their discussions, the series has garnered positive reviews. It has been recognized with four Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special.
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Historical Roasts
“Roastmaster General” himself, Jeff Ross, and a star-studded lineup of guests come together to skewer prominent historical figures playfully. They entertain and pay tribute to these individuals’ lasting influence on our world through their humor.
Miseducation (2023)
“Miseducation” is a series that speaks to the universal experience of finding oneself amidst the clutter of youth. It promises to entertain and inspire.
It’s a South African series that combines comedy and drama. The show follows the captivating Mbali Hadebe, portrayed by the talented Buntu Petse, as she enrolls at Grahamstown University to escape the shadow cast by her family. Along with her unconventional gang of friends, Mbali faces the complexities of university life while simultaneously seeking their paths in life. Created by the talented duo Katleho Ramaphakela and Rethabile Ramaphakela, “Miseducation” promises a captivating narrative that seamlessly blends humor, heart, and the pursuit of self-discovery.
Santa Clarita Diet (2017)
Santa Clarita Diet, a comedic gem led by the talented Drew Barrymore, is a must-watch dark comedy series. It follows the lives of Sheila and Joel as they face the challenges of raising their teenage daughter. But here’s the twist: Sheila transforms into a zombie! As the family grapples with her undead condition, they must find a way to balance zombie problems with their everyday lives. This under-the-radar show offers a refreshing take on the genre and guarantees an addictive binge-watching experience!
The Mick (2017)
Co-created by Dave Chernin and John Chernin, unfortunately, it is a short-lived comedy series “The Mick” showcasing the comedic brilliance of Kaitlin Olson, known for her role in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” Olson shines as Mickey, an aunt renowned for her ambitious schemes. Mickey is left to care for their kids when her sister and wealthy brother-in-law flee to evade federal fraud charges. Together with the talented Sofia Black-D’Elia, Thomas Barbusca, Jack Stanton, and the ever-supportive Carla Jimenez, they navigate a series of uproarious misadventures.
Inside Job (2021)
It’s fascinating how some people believe in secret organizations controlling the world, but what if it were true? That’s the premise of Inside Job, a workplace sitcom that’s both hilarious and crazy. The show presents a world where lizard people control financial institutions, the moon landing is fake, and the Earth is not flat (thank goodness). It follows the story of Reagan Ridley, an intelligent inventor with no social skills, and Brett Hand, her hilariously obtuse co-captain.
Reagan and Brett teamed up to shake things up within the shadow government, but their efforts were met with resistance and often fatal consequences. The show uses humor to tackle serious issues like childhood trauma and the need for acceptance. Inside Job is a weird and wacky series that will make you laugh and love its nuanced characters. It’s a shame that Netflix canceled the show after just two seasons.
FUBAR (2023)
FUBAR sounds like an exciting and hilarious movie! Mixing action and comedy can be tricky, but FUBAR quickly pulls it off. It’s always great to see actors with solid chemistry on screen, and it sounds like Monica Barbaro and Arnold Schwarzenegger deliver some fantastic performances. I’m sure this film will thoroughly entertain fans of both genres.
The Pentavarate (2022)
The Pentaverate is a comedy series that fans of Mike Myers won’t want to miss. The show follows a secret society searching for a new member while a journalist attempts to expose their existence to the world. It’s a zany premise that leads to some hilarious moments, but the show also has some exciting subtext about passing the torch to a new generation. Plus, with raunchy humor and nods to Myers’ previous work, The Pentaverate will surely be a hit with comedy lovers.
A Series of Unfortunate Events (2017)
A Series of Unfortunate Events Is a show that’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate dry and black humor, it’s a must-watch. The talented Neil Patrick Harris as Count Olaf stands out, and the tragic and unfortunate circumstances the Baudelaire children find themselves in make for a gripping and entertaining story. Despite being dismissed and condescended to by the adults in their lives, the children persevere with wit and humor. Overall, it’s a well-written and well-acted series with the perfect mix of comedy and tragedy.
Man Vs. Bee (2022)
Mr Bean, or Rowan Atkinson, is undoubtedly a comedic legend, and it’s great to see him back in such a fun role. Man vs. Bee seems like the perfect mix of physical comedy and emotional depth, and I can’t wait to see Trevor Bingley’s wild journey unfold. Watching Atkinson’s comedic timing and unique brand of humor at work is always thrilling, and I’m sure this show will be no exception.
Grace and Frankie (2015)
When you bring together the legendary Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, you’re in for a treat with one of Netflix’s finest shows. Grace and Frankie reunite these iconic stars from the 1960s as an unlikely pair living together under unusual circumstances. Their husbands drop a bombshell: they’re gay, leaving their wives to navigate divorce and their spouses’ impending marriage.
Fonda’s Grace is a no-nonsense, tightly-wound businesswoman with a drinking problem, while Tomlin’s Frankie is a lovable, carefree bohemian who enjoys a toke or two. This hilarious and heartfelt series explores their evolving relationship, from tolerating each other to becoming inseparable. It tackles weighty topics like mortality, illness, and finding purpose, making it Netflix’s longest-running show for good reason.
The End of the F***ing World (2017)
“The End of the F***ing World” surpasses most teenage romances with its unique premise. James (played by Alex Lawther) believes he’s a serial killer and sees Alyssa (portrayed by Jessica Barden) as his potential first victim. Both characters desire freedom from society and their bodies: Alyssa seeks it through exploration and confrontation, while James seeks it through destruction and rejecting humanity. When they impulsively go on a road trip together, their relationship becomes more complicated, leading to unexpected revelations. The show balances morbid humor and heartfelt moments, avoiding excessive emotionalism.
The Good Place (2016)
If you’ve been craving shows like Parks and Recreation or The Office, look no further than The Good Place. Created by Michael Schur, the mastermind behind Parks and Rec, this series combines humor with an intriguing, serialized storyline that will keep you hooked. The show is set in the afterlife, where Eleanor Shellstrop (played by Bell) mistakenly finds herself in the “good place” despite leading a selfish and spiteful life.
With the guidance of her soulmate, Chidi (Harper), she strives to become a better person, while flashbacks reveal her past and those around her. Meanwhile, Michael (Danson), the architect of a good place, tries to uncover why things are going awry. Expect plenty of surprises, brilliant comedy, and surprisingly deep philosophical exploration of morality and goodness. Plus, it wraps up with a satisfying series finale.
Lovesick
Lovesick is a refreshingly genuine comedy that flourishes on awkwardly funny and occasionally risqué situations. It breaks away from the typical canned laughter format by presenting these situations down-to-earthly. Instead of relying on constant punchlines, the show’s humor stems from its well-developed characters. Each episode introduces new characters and settings, making Lovesick feel more intricate than your average sitcom.
The series spans seven years and delves into the protagonists’ lives, showcasing their growth, personal struggles, and career successes. This long-term storytelling creates a strong connection between the viewers and the characters, making their current situations all the more engaging.
Love
If you’re a fan of Undeclared or Freaks and Geeks, you shouldn’t miss out on Love, the latest series from Judd Apatow. It’s like imagining what would happen if Sam Weir and Kim Kelly from those shows ended up dating in their 30s. The story follows Gus, a nerdy tutor on a witch-themed teen drama set, and Mickey, a struggling radio producer dealing with her sobriety, as they had their recent breakups and fell for each other.
As expected from Apatow, the series has a heartfelt sweetness, and the talented cast, including scene-stealer Claudia O’Doherty as Mickey’s roommate Bertie, shines. The addiction storyline adds depth to the show. The characters are complex and not always likable, but that’s just how love can be.
Norsemen
It’s always great to discover hidden gems, and this Norwegian comedy fits the bill. It’s exciting to hear that it’s returning for a third season, and it’s always good to have options for those who want to avoid reading subtitles. It sounds like a comedic take on Viking culture and a parody of severe period dramas like Game of Thrones, which could be a refreshing change of pace. I’ll have to add it to my watchlist!
Master of None
It’s a brilliantly crafted show that effortlessly balances humor and poignancy. With its brilliant writing, stylish visuals, and outstanding performances, the show has rightfully earned its place as one of Netflix’s best original series.
One of the many things that sets Master of None apart is its willingness to tackle complex and vital issues, such as race and representation in the media. Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang have created an entertaining and thought-provoking show, and it’s refreshing to see a comedy that is unafraid to take on serious topics.
Master of None is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates clever writing, nuanced performances, and a healthy dose of heart. It’s an entertaining and meaningful show, and it has significantly impacted the television landscape.
Jane The Virgin
Jane the Virgin follows the story of Jane Villanueva, who becomes pregnant through accidental artificial insemination. She confesses to her serious boyfriend, Michael Cordero Jr., that she’s carrying another man’s child—specifically, Rafael Solano, the wealthy owner of the hotel where Jane works as a waitress. Combining elements of romantic comedy and satirical telenovelas, the show embraces its melodrama with a playful tone. Love triangles, evil twins, suspenseful cliffhangers, unexpected twists, and even multiple murders are all part of the fun. The talented cast brings a grounded and convincing performance to every delightfully absurd moment of the show.
XO, Kitty
Do you Remember the Covey family from To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before? In this charming spin-off series, the youngest daughter, Katherine “Kitty” Song Covey (Anna Cathcart), turns to chase love — from Portland to Seoul. That’s where she and her long-distance boyfriend Dae (Minyoung Choi) will be attending the Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS). (Great name for a rom-com setting, right?) At first, it all seems like a dream come true: Kitty’s secured a full scholarship, and KISS is her late mother’s alma mater, meaning she’s sure to feel some meaningful connection there, right? But when Kitty arrives at the school’s welcome party, she finds another girl on Dae’s arm.
Beef (2023)
This comedy-drama miniseries, created by director Lee Sung Jin, explores the consequences of a road rage incident that deeply affects two individuals. The incident in a parking lot triggers a bitter feud between them, consuming their thoughts and actions. As their vendetta escalates, they become consumed by revenge, endangering everything and everyone in their lives. The series delves into how unchecked anger and obsession can lead to destructive consequences that resonate with viewers.
